Apple Maps takes a new step forward with the arrival of the Look Around function on its web version. The “Street View” with Apple flavor is now available to everyone on the beta version of Maps on the web, further enriching Apple’s online services. This major new feature arrives a few months after the launch of the beta version of Apple Maps on a web browser last June
A Street View experience made by Cupertino
Look Around, Apple’s equivalent of Google’s popular Street View, allows users to explore the streets with 360-degree panoramic views. This feature, initially launched in 2019 with iOS 13, is now accessible directly from a web browser by simply clicking on the binoculars icon in the Apple Maps interface.
Look Around’s geographic coverage currently extends to several selected urban areas in the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, the European Union and a few other countries (official list available on the Apple website).
A constantly evolving web version
The web version of Apple Maps, still in “public beta”, already offers several essential features. Users can explore maps, search for businesses and points of interest, get directions, and view guidebooks.
However, some features are still unavailable, including:
- Public transport map
- Displaying buildings in 3D
- Sign in with an Apple ID to access saved locations
- Personalized guides
Apple promises to gradually add new features, platforms and languages. The service is currently accessible via beta.maps.apple.com and compatible with the main browsers: Safari, Chrome, Edge and Firefox.
Can Apple Maps compete with Google Maps? Nothing is less certain, especially since Apple is banking heavily on porting its services to the web, notably iCloud, which underwent a complete overhaul a few weeks ago. For Cupertino, things are progressing slowly but surely.
